Seasons of Love

By Joan Deppa

The beautiful, western Upper Peninsula of Michigan, with snow covered hills in the winter; Lake Superior, as well as inland lakes and numerous waterfalls in the summer; and colorful leaves in Autumn, are the setting for three couples who discover new adventures and enjoy the nature that surrounds them. Is healing and love also possible? 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rushmore Press LLC
• Release date: Mar 23, 2023
• ISBN: 9781959182894

Joan Deppa

Joan Deppa and her husband have counseled hurting people for over 30 years and now she writes inspirational, romance novels, with characters you can relate to, become friends with, and enjoy the beautiful setting of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan as well. She desires to encourage her readers to know that God loves them, understands their pain, and wants to come alongside them and help them find the acceptance, joy, peace, love and purpose they are searching for. Joan and her husband have been married for over 47 years, have four adult children, eleven grandchildren, and have lived mostly in the Midwest - UP for 14 years. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers.

Book preview

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank my husband, Jerry, for his help and wisdom with the remodeling aspect of this book, as well as my friend, Ken, and brother, Russ. I appreciate all your time, recommendations, and wisdom.

Introduction

The western Upper Peninsula (UP) of Michigan is rich in culture, beautiful scenery, and known as the big snow country. For winter recreation, there are many groomed snowmobile and cross-country ski trails, as well as ski resorts for downhill skiing and snowboarding. It is bordered to the north by the magnificent Lake Superior, which allows for summer boating, fishing, kayaking, and picnics. There is also an abundance of waterfalls, inland lakes, hiking trails, biking, camping, and the natural beauty of the rolling hills, especially Porcupine Mountain - the state’s largest park and highest elevation, which can be enjoyed in any season. The colors of the leaves in autumn, and sunsets over the lake are breathtaking and not to be missed. This is the setting for Seasons of Love, where you’ll meet friends in three different stories who learn to appreciate and enjoy God’s creation. But they also learn about God’s love and forgiveness, how to release their fears and follow their dreams, and understand that God has a special plan for each one of our lives.

In Whiter Than Snow, Bonnie Turner has recently moved to the UP of Michigan and is enamored by its beauty in the wintertime. While enjoying the beauty, Brad Jorgenson bumps into her and takes it upon himself to show her the sights and how to enjoy winter in the UP. But will Bonnie be able to show Brad how to release the anger and bitterness he’s carried since childhood and introduce him to the Creator of the beauty he enjoys? Can God’s love and forgiveness really make his heart whiter than snow?

In Summer Dreams, April Phillips is a sixth grade teacher who loves children but feels she should never marry due to the history of divorce in her family. Instead, she pursues her dream to learn to kayak and buys an older house that she can make into the home of her dreams. However, Aaron Matthews has his own dreams, to marry April and have a family of their own. But first, he needs to help her realize that God is able to break her chains of fear and give her a love that paddles through the storms and difficulties of life and thrives. Whose dreams will be realized? Can they both win?

In Autumn Discoveries, Missy enjoys helping people but has a low self-esteem and often feels she doesn’t measure up to other people’s expectations. So when Mike starts showing an interest in her, she feels he’s definitely not the man for her because of his position and what would be expected of her. But as she faces some of her insecurities; begins to understand her strengths, weaknesses, and loneliness; and realizes what’s important to her—she discovers that God may have a special plan for her life after all. Will it be much better than what she had planned? Does God have a special plan for each one of us?

Book I

Whiter Than Snow

Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

—Psalm 51:7

Chapter 1

The snow was gently falling from the sky, kissing Bonnie’s face as she looked up. It had already covered the branches on the trees like a soft blanket and made a thick, white carpet on the ground. It was a beautiful winter wonderland. Bonnie loved being out in the woods on a day like this—just her, God, and nature.

Hey, look out! screamed a voice from behind Bonnie, but too late to stop her from landing on her backside as she tried to get out of the way.

She looked around to find the person responsible for the outcry and saw that he too was on the ground—skis pointing to the sky, poles on either side of him, and his back toward her. But not for long. As he turned around, she could see the angry expression on his face, and she braced herself to hear about the trouble she had caused.

What do you think you’re doing, standing in the middle of the ski trail like that? The man stood up on his skis and came toward Bonnie.

I’m sorry, Bonnie said, as she awkwardly tried to get up.

But the snow on that side of the trail was softer, and she was having a hard time getting her feet under her.

A hand reached down to help her. As she looked up into his face, it looked less angry and more concerned for her welfare.

Here, let me help you up. Are you hurt anywhere?

No. Thankfully, I had the snow to cushion my fall. How about you? Are you all right?

Yes, although I’m sure we’ll both have some bruises we didn’t have before. Don’t you know you’re not supposed to walk on the groomed trails? It ruins it for cross-country skiers, and coming down this hill it’s hard to stop. I didn’t see you until I came around that turn. What are you doing here?

I was enjoying the beautiful day, just like you. I like walking in the woods, but my boots kept sinking into the deep snow and it was hard to walk, so I stayed on the edge of the trail where it was packed down so I wouldn’t keep sinking. You mainly go down the middle, so I didn’t wreck your stupid trail! She planted her fists on her hips. Besides, where’s a person supposed to walk anyway? You’re not the only one who likes to be out in the woods.

She hoped her stern expression would convey her seriousness, as her five-foot-three stature wouldn’t intimidate him as he looked down on her.

Okay, okay, I get the point. But you’re endangering yourself and others on this trail when you stand there gawking that way. Why don’t you get yourself some cross-country skis, then you can enjoy the trails more safely?

It does look like fun, but I don’t know if I could do it.

I could teach you. I have a ski shop in town. You could rent some skis at first to see how you like it and go from there. By the way, my name is Brad Jorgenson, owner of the Lake and Snow in Bessemer, and you are?

Bonnie. Bonnie Turner. I recently moved to Ironwood, Michigan, and have found it to be a beautiful area.

That it is. In any season. But for now, let’s get you out of the woods safely. You stay on the edge of the trail, and I’ll take the middle. I’ll help you get back to your car, as it should only be about a mile or so.

Oh please, don’t stop skiing on my account. I can make it back on my own.

I don’t want to worry about you getting run over by another skier. I can come back another time. Brad smiled. Besides, like you said, it’s a beautiful day to enjoy the woods.

So they continued on through the trees and across the white carpet of packed snow. Bonnie, however, got a good view of not only the woods but also Brad’s back, as he was able to go faster on the downhill parts of the trail on his skis than she could on foot. He looked to be about five feet ten and muscular, which told her he was an outdoorsman. His dark hair, partly covered by his stocking cap, had soft waves in it. Whenever he stopped and turned to make sure she was all right, his blue eyes sparkled in the sun that was beginning to peek out of the clouds and through the trees.

As they got closer to the parking lot and Bonnie’s car, the trail widened and was flatter, so Brad pointed out the different kinds of trees and small animals frolicking in the snow. It seemed like all of God’s creation was enjoying this beautiful day as well.

When they got to the parking lot, Brad put his skis and poles into his red SUV, and Bonnie started walking to her car.

I want to thank you, Brad, for walking with me and making sure I got back safely. And I promise not to walk on your groomed ski trails again. I’ll have to find another place to walk. Or maybe I’ll try cross-country skiing. We’ll see.

As she got into her car, Brad came over and put his hand on the door before she could shut it.

Would you like to get a cup of hot chocolate before you go home? I know a little café down the road that has the best homemade pies and the creamiest hot chocolate you’ve ever tasted. My treat—for running into you.

Oh, that’s not necessary.

Please. Maybe we can even talk about those ski lessons for you, he said with another smile.

All right. Hot chocolate does sound good. I’ll follow you.

As Brad said, the café was not far down the road. It wasn’t very busy, so they chose a booth by the window. A waitress came right away, and Brad ordered apple pie à la mode with a cup of hot chocolate; and Bonnie ordered just a hot chocolate. It didn’t take long to get their order, and Brad was right—the hot chocolate was rich and creamy. It really hit the spot.

So what brought you to Ironwood? Brad asked as he cut into his pie.

Actually, a friend of mine lives here. April and I went to college together at the University of Minnesota in Duluth. After we graduated, April got a job teaching in the elementary school in Ironwood. I got a teaching job in the Minneapolis area but didn’t really like living in the big city, as I’m more of a small-town girl. So when April heard about an opening in her school district, she told me about it. I applied, got the job, and here I am.

So what grade do you teach? Brad asked as he continued eating his pie.

The third grade. It’s a nice age. The kids still like their teacher, are excited with all the new things they’re learning, but are able to do a lot of things on their own. My class has twenty-one students, so it’s a nice size to work with. How about you? Have you lived in the area all your life?

Yes, pretty much. I graduated from Bessemer High School and then Gogebic Community College in Ironwood, where I got a degree in business. Now I have my own business doing what I enjoy—skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, boating, and just being in the great outdoors. Which reminds me, when should we set up your first cross-country ski lesson?

Well, I don’t know. Are you sure you can fit me into your busy schedule?

I’ll make the time, Brad said with a smile. I’m sure you’re pretty busy during the week with school and all, so how about next Saturday afternoon about one-thirty? You can meet me at my shop, we’ll fit you with some skis, and I’ll take you to some trails that would be good for you to start out on. I have someone helping me on the weekends, so I can take some time off when I need to. Here’s my business card. It has the shop address and phone number.

All right. I guess if I’m going to live here, I better learn how to ski and enjoy the beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Thank you for the hot chocolate, Bonnie said as she grabbed Brad’s business card and her coat. I guess I’ll see you next Saturday then.

They left the café, and Brad walked her to her car.

Until next Saturday, he said as Bonnie got into her car and shut the door.

Chapter 2

The week went by fast, and Bonnie was anxious for her first skiing lesson on Saturday afternoon, not to mention seeing Brad again. On Saturday morning, Bonnie and April cleaned the apartment they shared, went on some errands, and ate a quick lunch. Then Bonnie was off to Brad’s ski shop.

Arriving a little early, Bonnie was able to look around the shop while Brad was taking care of a customer. She was amazed at all the different types of snow gear that were in his shop: goggles, skis, snowboards, snowshoes, and many other items.

It can get expensive to enjoy the snow, Bonnie thought.

She wasn’t sure how far her teaching salary would allow her to enjoy the recreation this area offered. But soon, Brad came over, took her by the hand, and led her to the back of the shop.

I keep my used skis and boots back here and use them for my rentals. We’ll start you out on one of these to see how you like it. I put aside some skis that I thought would work well for you. Let’s try them out and see how they fit. I guessed at your height and weight, as I know it’s not polite to ask a woman those things. But it’s important to know when fitting you for a pair of skis. Is five-feet-three and about a hundred and twenty pounds pretty close?

Yes, that’s close, Bonnie answered with a shy grin.

Okay. What size shoe do you wear?

Size seven.

All right. Have a seat right here, and I’ll get you a pair of boots.

As he went to get the ski boots, Bonnie took off her snow boots and was wondering if she should have put on an extra pair of socks to keep her feet warm. But Brad soon came back with ski boots and a pair of socks as well.

Here, put these on first. They’re smart wool socks, not bulky but really warm. Your feet will be warm as toast.

Bonnie put them on, and Brad helped her with the ski boots.

Okay, now stand up and see how they feel. We don’t want them too loose and floppy, but we don’t want them too tight either.

Brad took Bonnie’s hand and helped her stand up. It felt different at first, but they seemed to be a perfect fit.

All right, now let me lay the skis down, and I’ll show you how we hook the boots into them. Lift up your right foot and slip the toe of the boot into the bindings. Then rest your boot down, and you’ll hear it click into place.

Bonnie did as he directed, heard the click, and was pleased that it was going so well.

Good. Now we’ll do the left one. Why don’t you hang on to my shoulder? Lift up your left boot and slip it into the left ski.

Bonnie did as he said and was grateful that she was hanging on to Brad’s shoulder or she would have lost her balance. Maybe this wasn’t as easy as it looked.

You’re doing fine, Brad assured her. Now just stand for a while and get your balance.

Soon Bonnie felt steady on her own, so he moved away and got her ski poles.

Here, hang onto these poles, and they’ll help you balance.

Bonnie did so and felt more secure.

Okay, I think everything fits you well. Sit back down again, and we’ll take the skis off and load them into my SUV. You might as well leave the boots on as we’ll be going directly to the trail from here.

After Brad loaded the skis and poles into his SUV, they headed out for Bonnie’s first ski lesson. Bonnie was excited and scared at the same time. Many questions went through her mind.

What if I make a fool of myself? Will I be able to get the hang of it? Will I be wasting Brad’s time?

Brad seemed to sense her uncertainty as he placed his hand on hers and said, Don’t worry. You’re going to be fine! This is supposed to be fun, you know, not a test.

Bonnie smiled and tried to relax. When they got to their destination, they got out and unloaded the skis. Brad helped Bonnie with hers and then put his own on.

All right, we’re ready. This trail is pretty level and doesn’t have any sharp turns. It’s also wide so we can ski side by side. It’s like walking—only you don’t pick up your feet as much, so it’s more of a gliding motion. Use your poles to push off, and let’s go.

It was actually easier than Bonnie had expected. After she got the hang of it, Bonnie was able to look around and enjoy some of the scenery around them—the bare branches reaching toward the heavens, the birds and squirrels frolicking in the snow, and the sun peeking through the clouds.

Brad talked more about the area and mentioned other trails he thought she would enjoy. Skiing was definitely good exercise, for she could tell she was using muscles she didn’t normally use every day.

We don’t want to overdo it for your first time, but you seem to be catching on very quickly. We’ll turn you into a Yooper yet, Brad exclaimed.

What’s a ‘Yooper’? Bonnie asked.

"A Yooper is a person who lives in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, or the UP. Someone who is used to the snow and cold, says yah a lot instead of yes and calls this place home."

Well, I don’t know if I qualify yet, but I hope to become a Yooper one day, Bonnie affirmed.

Let’s go up to that next curve and then head back. That will be about one mile. That’s long enough for your first time.

Bonnie was thankful for his understanding and glad when they got back to his SUV, for she was getting short of breath and the muscles in her legs were sore. She gratefully accepted the bottle of water Brad offered.

Wow! I’m tired, but it’s a nice tired. I feel exhilarated by the exercise and the fresh air, and I really enjoyed the view. I think I’d like to do this again, Bonnie realized as she said it. How much do you charge for a lesson?

I’ll tell you what, Brad replied with a smile on his face, you cook me supper, and we’ll call it even. As far as future lessons go, well, we’ll figure that out later.

You’ve got yourself a deal. I share an apartment with my friend, April. You’ll be able to meet her, as I’m pretty sure she wasn’t going anywhere.

They were soon loaded up and headed back to Brad’s shop.

I have some work to do at the shop. We close at five, so I can be at your apartment about five-thirty. Does that work for you? Brad asked as he parked.

Sure, Bonnie said as she got out of the SUV and walked toward her car. Let me make sure it’s okay with April first.

Bonnie called April on her cell phone and got her approval, gave Brad their address, got in her car, and headed for home.

Bonnie was grateful they’d cleaned the apartment that morning so they didn’t have a lot to do when she got home. Of course, April had a lot of questions for her while they prepared supper. Bonnie started preparing some baked potatoes and chicken breasts, while April got out makings for a salad. Bonnie had picked up some buns and a pie at the store, so they had that to add to their menu. With both of them working together, supper was ready when Brad arrived.

They enjoyed getting acquainted while they ate and cleaned up the dishes. After the dishes were done, April excused herself to her bedroom to work on a project for her sixth grade class. Bonnie and Brad headed to the living room and sat on the sofa.

So what did you do for fun in the wintertime when you were growing up? Brad asked.

Well, I grew up in Minnesota and came from a large family, so we did things pretty simply. We made forts in the snow piles that were there after my dad plowed, went sledding down nearby hills, skated on the neighbor’s pond, made snowmen and snow angels, and, of course, had snowball fights. When you come from a large family like I did, you can’t afford to do things that cost a lot of money. But we never felt left out. We had each other, and we did with what we had. What about your family?

Oh, my parents split up when I was little, and I grew up in a foster home. They had a logging business, so I worked outside quite a bit. We wore snowshoes out in the woods when the snow was deep. With all the ski hills around here, I would go skiing whenever I could save up enough money. I guess I just liked being outdoors. It was peaceful, nobody bothered me, and I could do my own thing.

Did your foster family have any other kids?

Yah, they had one son, but we didn’t get along very well.

Bonnie could tell that Brad didn’t feel comfortable talking about his foster family, so she tried to change the subject.

How did you come to own your own business?

After high school, I went to work for Joe, the previous owner of the Lake and Snow. He let me stay in the back of his shop and encouraged me to get a business degree at Gogebic Community College. I continued to work for Joe, and when he retired, he sold the business to me. Of course, it’s not all paid for yet, but I’m my own boss, and I’m doing what I like to do. It can’t get any better than that.

Brad had a smile back on his face again, and after a short pause asked, So do you have any plans for tomorrow? You’ll probably be a little sore after the exercise you got today, but we could take a drive, and I could show you around some more of the area.

Well, I’ll be going to church in the morning, and I have some work I need to do on the Christmas program for my third grade class. I could probably spare a couple of hours in the afternoon though. What time were you thinking of?

How about I pick you up at about one? I promise I’ll have you home by three-thirty at the latest so you’ll have plenty of time to work on your program.

All right. I’ve been so busy since I arrived here—getting settled in and ready for my class and finding where things are in town—that I haven’t taken the time to really see the area. Now that I’ve had a taste of the beauty around here, I’m anxious to see more.

Brad got up and Bonnie went to grab his coat out of the closet.

Thank you so much for my first ski lesson. You were very patient, and I’ll definitely want to try it again. It was a lot of fun, though I’m sure I’ll be sore in the morning. I didn’t realize how out of shape I was.

Cross-country skiing is definitely a good workout, but you did great for your first time. And thank you for the delicious supper. It more than covered your first ski lesson, so I owe you. Whenever you’re ready for lesson two, just let me know. Tell April goodbye for me and that it was a pleasure meeting her.

As Brad looked into Bonnie’s eyes he smiled and said, I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

With that, he opened the door and was gone.

Bonnie leaned against the door and felt her heart beating against her chest. She had never felt like this before.

Take a deep breath, Bonnie, she told herself.

As she did, her heart slowed down a bit, but she smiled as she shut out the lights and went to her bedroom. It looked like tomorrow would be another wonderful day.

Chapter 3

Brad was looking forward to his afternoon with Bonnie. She was delightful to be around, she could cook, and she was real, not phony like some women. He could tell she wasn’t trying to make a good impression or put on an act, but was kind and fun to be with, not to mention good looking. Her just below shoulder-length, brown hair shone when the sun hit it, and he had been tempted to feel how soft it was. Her eyes were hazel with green flecks in them, and her beautiful smile made her whole face light up.

Brad knocked on her apartment door, but didn’t have long to wait before Bonnie opened it. She looked beautiful in a pair of jeans and a green knit sweater, which made her eyes look the same shade of green as her sweater, and they sparkled as she smiled.

Let me get my coat, and I’ll be ready to go.

Brad helped Bonnie with her coat, and then they went to his SUV parked out front.

I thought I’d take you to Black River Road. It’s one of the popular sites in the UP and a beautiful drive this time of year. There are lots of things that I think would interest you. It ends at Black River Harbor, which isn’t plowed this time of year, except for the boat ramp, but you can get a look at Lake Superior anyway.

Brad opened the door for Bonnie, waited until she was settled, shut the door, and went around to the other side.

Are you ready?

I sure am. It’s nice to have a tour guide who knows the area and can show me the best sights. I’ve heard about Black River Road but haven’t had a chance to check it out. I’m excited!

Good, then let’s get going. It’s not far and will only take us about twenty minutes to get there. I’ll take you down Lake Street, but we’ll come back a different way so you can see other things on the way back.

They rode in silence for a while as Bonnie took in the route so she could remember the way, in case she wanted to go again on her own.

At this four-way stop we’ll take a right onto Airport Road. I’m sure you’ll want to come again, and it’s a pretty easy route.

They hadn’t driven far when they drove by the Gogebic County Airport.

Mostly small company planes use this airport, but some small passenger planes come in also, so it gets used quite a bit, Brad explained.

A few miles further, they came to a T in the road.

This is Black River Road. We’ll take a left and go down to Lake Superior, but there are several interesting things I want to point out to you along the way. The first will be Copper Peak. It’s the highest ski slide in the world, which is 469 feet long. Ski jumpers used to come from all over the world to train for the Winter Olympics there. They would strap on a pair of 8-foot skis, accelerate to 65 miles per hour down the run, and soar more than 600 feet to the bottom of the hill. To get up to the top, there’s an 800-foot chairlift and then an 18-story elevator ride to the main observation deck. Then there’s another 8 stories to climb to the very top of the slide. They don’t use it so much now, as they need to do some work on it.

You’ve got to be kidding! Here in the UP? Bonnie was surprised to find something so amazing in this small-town area.

They don’t call this area the ‘big snow country’ for nothing. We get well over two hundred inches of snow here in the wintertime.

Wow! I guess I better learn to like snow. We had snow in Minnesota but not that much. No wonder there are so many snowmobilers and skiers in the area.

Here we are at the turnoff that goes to Copper Peak, Brad said as he took a road that veered off to the right. It wasn’t long before they came to the amazing ski jump. They couldn’t see the top from inside the vehicle, so they got out to see it better.

This is amazing! People actually ski off of that? You wouldn’t get me up there. I’m not too crazy about heights.

People are able to go up on the observation deck in the summer and fall and can see some eighty-five miles across Lake Superior to northern Minnesota on a clear day. You can see the Apostle Islands, which is forty miles away; Isle Royale, eighty miles away; and Porcupine Mountain is twenty-five miles away. The view is spectacular, especially in the fall.

Have you ever gone up there? Bonnie asked.

Yes, Joe took me up there once in the fall. It was really awesome.

Well, I think that will be one thing I’ll pass on, Bonnie decided with a shiver. I’d rather stay closer to the ground, thank you very much.

You’re getting cold. Let’s get back into the vehicle. I kept the motor running and the heater on.

They got back into the vehicle, and the warmth felt good. However, Bonnie wasn’t sure if her shiver was from the cold or her fear of heights.

"Actually, you can get an even better view of how high the slide is from a distance. We’ll see it later coming back.

Brad retraced their way to the Copper Peak turnoff and continued their drive down Black River Road.

This road is called the Black River Scenic Byway because it follows the Black River and has many beautiful sights along the way. Black River got its name from all the hemlocks that grow along it. The seeds from the hemlocks give it the dark color. There are five waterfalls that you can walk to within a short distance. The first one is here on the right called the Great Conglomerate Falls. The trail is a little less than a mile through the woods. You’d love it! It’s a beautiful walk, and the waterfall is breathtaking. We’ll have to come back in the spring after the snow melts. It’s more difficult to get to with all the snow.

In the spring? That must mean he wants to spend more time with me. Is that what I want also? What do I want? Bonnie wondered.

Brad was definitely good looking, fun to be with, and very polite; and she enjoyed having him share his love of nature with her. But did he know the One who created all this beauty that he enjoys?

Here are the second and third waterfalls called the Potawatomi and Gorge Falls. It’s only a short walk in and has a boardwalk that goes along the river and even a small picnic area.

They didn’t go far before they came to the fourth waterfalls sign.

The parking lot to Sandstone Falls is just off this road, but there are a lot of stairs that go down to get to the waterfall. However, the view is definitely worth it. We’ll have to be sure and come back to see this one in the spring too. That’s when the water is really high and rushing. It will definitely take your breath away. You’ll get your exercise walking back up also. The last one is Rainbow Falls. You can get to it from here or across the river by the harbor. Either way, it’s beautiful, especially in the fall when the colors are changing. And to the left is a national campground. Do you like to go camping?

Yes, we went as a family several times. We just had a small trailer and a tent, but it was always something we looked forward to in the summer.

Well, this is a nice campground. The sites are good sized, surrounded by trees for privacy, and several have a good view of Lake Superior. They don’t have electricity, so it’s more for people who like to rough it and don’t need all the fancy stuff. But there’s nothing like sitting around and cooking over an open campfire.

Bonnie could tell by the faraway look and smile on Brad’s face that he really enjoyed camping.

And this is the harbor. We can only drive down to the boat ramp because of all the snow, but this is Lake Superior from the Michigan side, Brad said after he stopped his vehicle at the boat ramp.

They surveyed the view in front of them, and Bonnie was glad there were no other vehicles so they could just stay and take in the beauty.

If you look down the shore, you can see Porcupine Mountain in the distance.

There was ice on the edge of the lake, but it had open water further out. The shimmering blue water sparkled as the sun hit it. To the right and in the distance was Porcupine Mountain. Bonnie had never seen mountains before; though these weren’t big like the Rocky Mountains out west, they were mountains just the same, and she was totally thrilled to see them. It took a few minutes for her to speak, but Brad gave her the time to take it all in.

It’s so magnificent! I’ve never seen anything so beautiful! Thank you for bringing me here, Brad. When I went to school in Duluth, we saw Lake Superior, but it was so commercial with all the boats, trains, buildings, bridges, and grain elevators. Here it’s just the lake, trees, sky and the mountains. It’s awesome!

I knew you’d like it. That’s why I wanted to bring you here. Brad reached over and took Bonnie’s hand, and they just sat silently, enjoying the view.

After a few minutes, Brad let go of her hand and started turning around.

Well, I promised to have you home by 3:30 p.m., so we’d better head back. I still have a few more things to show you.

As they drove back down the road, Bonnie had a chance to look through the trees and see the terrain of the area. There were rolling hills, rocks, hardwoods, and pines, all covered in the beautiful white snow. Everything looked so clean and white. It reminded her of the words to the chorus of that old hymn Whiter Than Snow:

Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than snow;

Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.

She felt reflective and started humming the tune, but Brad’s hand on her arm interrupted her. Look! Now you can get a good view of the ski jump and really see how high it is.

Brad pulled off to the side of the road and pointed to the ski jump that stood high above the trees. It looked even taller than it had when they were up close, as the ski hill had made it hard to get a perspective on its true size.

Boy, you can really see it from here. It’s even taller than I imagined. I can’t understand how anyone could build something like that so high up, much less climb it. It has to be a beautiful view from up there though.

Brad soon pulled back onto the road and started talking about Joe, the man who took him in after high school and taught him to run the ski shop.

"Joe’s father grew up in Finland. A lot of people in this area have family that came from there. During World War II, he was on the ski patrol, as he practically grew up on skis. He loved the snow, loved to ski, and taught Joe to ski. He told Joe lots of stories about when he was growing up, about the war, and coming to America. He worked in the mines when he first came here but didn’t like it. He couldn’t see the sky, so he started the business in Bessemer. It was tough going at first, but over the years, he and Joe built it up to what it is today. There are five downhill ski hills within ten miles of Ironwood. There are miles of groomed cross-country trails, and with snowshoes, you really don’t need trails, so it’s a good business.

Coming up is one of the ski hills in the area called Big Powderhorn Mountain. That’s where I’ve done most of my downhill skiing. People snowboard there too, but I like skiing better. As you look straight ahead, you can see the ski hill with some of the ski slopes.

As Bonnie looked, she saw a snow-covered mountain with trees on top and patterns of ski slopes, chairlifts, and skiers at different spots along the side of the mountain. What a spectacular sight. In her mind, she could picture Brad skiing down that mountain, and it made her want to join in the fun.

They lost the view for a short while as the road went around a bend, but then Brad took a turn to the right; and she noticed the road was called Powderhorn Lane. She soon found out why, for straight ahead was the resort. She could see the skiers—some coming down the hills, others going up on the chairlifts, still others coming out of the lodge, carrying their skis and poles to their vehicles after an afternoon of fun.

Brad pulled to a stop where they could sit and watch as the skiers wove down the mountain. They looked so graceful and made it look so easy.

Do you think you would like to try it? Brad asked.

You know, I did go skiing once with our youth group from church when I was in high school. But I never made it off the bunny hill. It looks like fun and much safer than the ski jump, but maybe I should get cross-country skiing down first before I try something else.

Okay. Well, it’s time I got you home.

Brad backed out of the parking lot, and they headed back to Ironwood.

Bonnie had seen so much in a short time that she was in awe and a bit overwhelmed with the beauty of the area she now called home. She sent up a prayer of thanks to God for bringing her here and for letting her enjoy the beauty of His creation.

She turned to Brad and said, I can’t thank you enough for this afternoon and everything you’ve shown me. Everything was just beautiful, and you were a wonderful tour guide.

It was my pleasure. You let me know when you’re ready for your next ski lesson. There’s a lot more places I’d like to show you.

Brad soon pulled into the parking lot of her apartment building.

You have my business card, but let me also give you my cell phone number in case you can’t reach me at the shop.

Brad pulled out a piece of paper and pen and wrote down his cell number and handed it to her.

He got out of his SUV and came around to open her door and walked Bonnie to her apartment.

Well, I got you home safe and sound and on time. I suppose I need to let you go so you can get your work done for your class tomorrow. Thank you for allowing me to show you some of my favorite places. You have my number, so feel free to call me anytime.

Thank you again. I had a wonderful time. And I’ll call and let you know when I can do that next ski lesson. You have a good evening.

Brad turned and went back to his vehicle, and Bonnie went into her apartment. It was going to be difficult to concentrate on preparing for her third-graders after spending the afternoon with Brad and seeing all he had shown her.

Chapter 4

Only two weeks of school remained before Christmas break, so besides their regular schoolwork, Bonnie’s students were also practicing for the Christmas program and making Christmas gifts for their parents. The children were excited about Christmas, and it was contagious, but Bonnie wasn’t ready for it yet. She and April still had to get a Christmas tree and decorate their apartment, and she had Christmas shopping left to do.

Bonnie was hoping to get most of it done this weekend, but Brad had called on Thursday evening, asking if she wanted to have her second ski lesson this Saturday afternoon. Her arms, shoulders, and legs had been pretty sore for a few days after the first lesson; but she had really enjoyed being outdoors. She found she enjoyed cross-country skiing, and the company was definitely enjoyable as well.

If she was going to learn to ski, it was best not to put it off and to keep at it. And since she wanted to get into shape, skiing would be a good way to do it and enjoy the area at the same time. So she told Brad she’d meet him on Saturday at his shop at one-thirty. However, she’d have to get some Christmas shopping done in the morning.

She woke up early Saturday morning, determined to get some of her Christmas shopping done, as well as some decorations for their Christmas tree, which they hoped to purchase and decorate that evening. She had written a list the night before, so hopefully it would help make her shopping more efficient. April was going to pick up some groceries they needed, and she had already given her money for her portion of the grocery budget. So she quickly took a shower, got dressed, read her Bible, ate breakfast, straightened up a few things in the apartment, and was out the door with her list by eight-thirty.

Getting the lights and Christmas tree decorations, the supplies for her school project, and some candles she wanted were the easy part of her shopping. She even found a gift for April right away, but gifts for her family were more difficult. She wanted them to be something they could use but not too practical; special but not too decorative. She soon found something for her younger brothers, but her older brothers and parents were more difficult. Whenever she asked her parents what they’d like, they would say, Oh, I don’t need anything. I have everything I need. Though she knew that wasn’t true, some things they needed she couldn’t afford, like a new car, or a new roof for their house.

But they had the most important things—love for one another being something money couldn’t buy. She hoped she would someday find someone to love her the way her parents loved each other. Someone who would be there in good times and bad, someone with whom she could talk to and share her dreams, but, most of all, someone who shared her faith and wanted to serve the Lord in whatever capacity He would lead them.

Could Brad be that person? Was he a Christian? Did he share her faith? Even though they seemed to get along well, liked some of the same things, and he was very kind and polite—they hadn’t talked about God. Did he even go to church? She would have to ask him that afternoon, which would be upon her soon. She needed to finish up her shopping, run things back to her apartment, and grab a quick lunch. She found a sweater for her sister and a book on airplanes for one of her brothers and headed for home.

Brad had everything loaded and was waiting for her when she got to the ski shop.

I’m sorry I’m late, Bonnie said as she got out of her car. I was trying to get some Christmas shopping done this morning.

You’re not that late, it’s only 1:35 p.m. We weren’t that busy, so I thought I’d get everything loaded before you got here, since I knew which skis worked for you. Are you ready to go?

Yes. It’s colder today than it was last week, but I put on those smart wool socks you gave me, and I’m dressed pretty warm, so I should be fine.

Bonnie got into Brad’s SUV, which was already warmed up, and they headed out.

Actually, you don’t want to dress too warm because as we get going, you warm up pretty fast. It’s best to layer so you can remove clothes as you go. Also, the thinner insulated clothes like I’m wearing are good because they’re warm but not bulky so you can move easier. We can look at some for you at the shop if you want.

Well, I think it’ll have to wait until after Christmas. By the time I get my Christmas shopping done, there won’t be much money left for that. I looked at some last week while I was waiting for you, and they’re kind of expensive.

Yes, they’re an investment. You can use what you have for now and pick up a piece now and then. They last a long time, though, and if you keep skiing and enjoy it, it’s worth it.

Spoken like a true businessman, Bonnie commented with a smile.

I’ll take that as a compliment, Brad said as he smiled back. Well, here we are. I thought we’d start off with the same trail but go a little farther so you can try some smaller hills. It’s fun when you can glide down a hill, and then it gives you the momentum to get up the next.

They had arrived at the ski trail, so Brad got out of the SUV and said, Wait here, and I’ll get your boots and help you put them on.

Brad helped Bonnie with her boots and laid out her skis. She clipped her boots into the skis, grabbed the poles and her gloves, and was ready to go. She had bought a pair of Thinsulate gloves, which helped her feel like she was on the way to looking more like a skier. Brad put on his skis, and they went off down the trail.

It was cloudy and snowing lightly, and the wind made it colder than the last time they’d skied, but like Brad said, she warmed up quickly once she got going. She remembered what he’d taught her the week before, so was able to move along pretty well. When they got to the rolling hills area, it was a challenge to get up the first hill but then she glided down and didn’t have to work quite as hard getting up the next one. She was enjoying it more and more.

You’re really getting the hang of this, Brad said.

I’m really having fun, and you’re a good teacher. I think you’ve got me hooked, but I definitely understand what you were saying about the thinner, less bulky clothes and layering. It would be easier to move without this bulky coat and clothes.

Let’s take a right here, and it’ll take us back to my SUV. I don’t want you to get too overheated.

When they got back, they loaded up and headed back to town.

April and I were planning to get a real Christmas tree and decorate it this evening. Do you know a good place where we could get one that won’t lose its needles right away and isn’t too big or expensive?

I sure do. You can pick out the size you want, and I can cut it down for you, free of charge.

Really. And where can we find such a deal?

At my place. I have forty acres south of Bessemer with all kinds of trees on it—hardwoods and pines of all shapes and sizes. Some of the smaller trees need to get thinned out now and then, as there isn’t enough room for all of them to grow. I can show you some that would make a nice Christmas tree. You pick the one you want, and it’s yours. We have a couple of hours of daylight left. I don’t need to go back to the shop, so if you want, we can pick up April and go pick one out now.

Could I use your cell phone and give her a call to see if she can go right away?

Sure, here. Brad gave Bonnie his cell phone.

April was thrilled with the idea of picking out and cutting down a live tree, so they picked her up and headed back to Bessemer.

When they got to Brad’s place, Bonnie was amazed to see a beautiful log cabin that Brad said he had built with Joe’s help and had gotten the logs off his own property.

Since my foster family had a logging business, I’d learned quite a bit about logging and trees over the years, so I decided to put it to good use.

You certainly did that, Bonnie acknowledged.

The house was one level and had a porch with railings that went across the front of the house. It had a stone chimney at the back of the house where a fireplace must be, and the house looked big enough to have two or three bedrooms.

That had to have been a lot of hard work, Bonnie stated bluntly.

That it was but definitely worth it. Now let’s go find you that Christmas tree. We’ll take my tractor back into the woods. I still have the trailer hooked up to it, so you can ride in the back of it. Let me just get my saw.

He soon came back, Bonnie and April climbed into the trailer, and they went down a path that led to the woods. It looked like Brad had made logging trails through the woods when he built his house, as they were wide enough for his tractor to go through easily.

They hadn’t gone far when they came upon a grove of pine trees. Some were very large, and some were seedlings, with many sizes in between.

We’ll stop here first and you can walk around and see if you see anything you like, Brad offered.

As they walked, they found many nice trees. However, Bonnie and April didn’t want anything too big since they didn’t have a lot of room in their apartment. They thought something about five feet would be about right.

What about this one, Bonnie? April asked.

It was about the right height, but it had some empty spaces between the branches, and Bonnie was hoping to find one a little fuller.

It’s a possibility, but let’s look around a little more and see if we can find one we like better.

They’d walked only a little farther when Brad called out from their left, Here’s a nice one that’s about the size you’re looking for.

When they saw the tree he was pointing to, Bonnie and April both knew that this was the one they wanted.

"You sure know your trees, Brad. This one